US SENATE CANDIDATES - September 1 Primary

US SENATE CANDIDATES

Our primary is September 1, but you can vote by mail now, take advantage of Early Voting beginning on August 22, or vote in person on September 1. You also have until August 22 to register to vote in this primary.

There are many people running for federal and state offices this year, and the final candidates for the November general election will be decided by this primary.

To help cut through some of the confusion, I will try to post the candidates running for offices here, along with their web sites. My goal is to do this daily if I can; today I'm showing all the candidates for US Senate.

(listed in reverse alphabetical order, because.....no reason, just felt like it)

Candidates for US SENATOR

 KEVIN J. O'CONNOR Republican https://www.kocforsenate.com/about/

 EDWARD J. MARKEY Democrat https://www.markey.senate.gov/

 JOSEPH P. KENNEDY, III Democrat https://kennedyforma.com/

 SHIVA AYYADURAI Republican https://shiva4senate.com/

 

The are no Libertarian or Green Rainbow candidates for this position

 

US SENATE CANDIDATES - September 1 Primary

MA Senate Passes Brewers Compromise

The Massachusetts State Senate on Thursday unanimously passed legislation that resolves a decade-long distribution dispute between brewers and wholesalers in the Commonwealth.

"Craft brewing is an industry that has grown in Massachusetts as a result of innovation, entrepreneurship, hard work and dedication to supporting small businesses, and is now thriving," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "Solving this decade-long dispute was a priority of mine long before becoming Senate President and I look forward to seeing this important agreement codified in law. I would like to thank my colleagues Senators Paul Feeney, Joe Boncore and Cindy Creem for their efforts and the Massachusetts Brewers Guild and Beer Distributors of Massachusetts for their determination in reaching this landmark compromise."

"The MBG is incredibly grateful for the support and leadership of Senate President Spilka in advocating for franchise law reform," said Sam Hendler, President of the Massachusetts Brewers Guild and co-founder of Jack's Abby Craft Lagers. This agreement is a victory for the more than 200 craft breweries across Massachusetts that have become pillars of their communities, helping local economies to thrive and drawing tourism to new areas. It took the collective effort of our counterparts in the legislature, the brewing community and the wholesalers to ensure we are able to continue our work as craft brewers now and for years to come."

"The Beer Distributors of Massachusetts are tremendously appreciative of the work, support, and leadership provided by Senate President Spilka in encouraging the Brewers Guild and the Beer Distributors to agree on franchise law reform that has been disputed for the past 10-years" said Joe Salois, owner & president of Atlas Distributing, Inc., Auburn, MA. "The efforts, leadership, and uncompromising willingness to reach agreement by the brewers, distributors, and legislature was a driving force in this achievement" said Salois.

The legislation, An Act Relative to Craft Brewers (S.2829), represents the agreement reached by The Massachusetts Brewers Guild, representing craft breweries, and the Beer Distributors of Massachusetts after good-faith negotiations encouraged by Spilka and her Senate colleagues.

"This bill will update our current franchise laws to reflect the modern marketplace, protect jobs and level the playing field for emerging brewers here in the Commonwealth," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I applaud the spirit of compromise shown by brewers and distributors to get this done and reach agreement during this time of great uncertainty. Thank you to Senate President Spilka for her leadership and Senators Feeney, Boncore and others for their hard work to ensure we pass this legislation today."

"This agreement and resulting legislation is indicative of the importance of a growing beer industry here in Massachusetts. Both the brewers and distributors came together to forge an agreement that protects jobs, promotes economic growth and entrepreneurship, and benefits consumers," said Senator Paul Feeney (D-Foxborough). "I am proud to have played a role, along with Senate President Spilka and Senator Creem in providing the environment and sense of urgency that allowed this deal to be reached by these two very willing stakeholders. This legislation should signal to the industry that the Commonwealth is supportive of this growing sector and that a network of local and independent distributors and workers are ready to bring their product to market."

"Massachusetts is home to more than 200 breweries that represent the unique culture and contours of our local communities," said Senator Joe Boncore (D-Winthrop). "This legislation will create a level playing field for craft brewers. Now, perhaps more than ever, it is critical that we support small and local businesses as we work towards economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic."

"The growth and expansion of the craft brewery business over the last decade has been a welcome addition to the State economy," said Senate Majority Leader Cindy Creem (D.Newton). "I applaud all the parties involved for reaching an agreement that will allow this industry to flourish both now and into the future."

In Massachusetts, current law makes it difficult for a brewer to end a relationship with their distributor, jeopardizing potential growth. The compromise legislation (S.2829) would allow a brewery that produces less than 250,000 barrels (or just over 3.4 million cases) a year to end their relationship with a distributor with a 30-day notice and other certain protections. If a distribution contract is terminated, the brewery would be responsible for fairly compensating the wholesaler the fair market value of the distribution rights in addition to other costs for inventory and marketing investments. The legislation calls for both parties to engage in an expedited arbitration process to resolve such issues.

An Act Relative to Craft Brewers now moves to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for consideration. 

Senate Passes Bill for Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in State House

The Massachusetts State Senate on Thursday unanimously passed legislation to establish a memorial to Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the House Chamber of the Massachusetts Legislature. The memorial will include the text of the civil rights leader's historic speech delivered in front of a joint convention of both houses of the Massachusetts General Court.

In his 1965 speech to the Legislature, King noted Massachusetts' role in securing liberty for this country. King furthermore declared, that "No section of the country can boast of clean hands in the area of brotherhood," and charged both state lawmakers and members of the public with doing more to preserve liberty and create a just society. The full text of the speech would be included on a plaque in the State House.

"The words of Dr. Martin Luther King have never been more important, especially as we embark on the hard work of dismantling systemic racism by reforming our system, shifting our resources and building a more equitable and just Commonwealth," stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I look forward to seeing his powerful message memorialized in the State House. I would like to thank the resolve's sponsor, Representative Bud Williams as well as Representative Carlos González, chair of the Massachusetts Black & Latino Legislative Caucus, members of the caucus and Senator Lovely for advocating for this important remembrance."

"Dr. King's 1965 speech reminds all legislators of our heavy responsibilities to create a Commonwealth where Black people receive equal and just treatment," said Senator Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem). "The placement of this plaque in the House chamber will make the State House a more inclusive and inspirational place for those of us who work here as well as for those who come to see our work."

The legislation now moves back to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for further action.

Senate Passes Bill for Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in State House

In the News: police reform bill stalls for 3rd day; parents want flag at half-staff Aug 31

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"For the third time in as many days, Senate Republicans prevented debate on a wide-ranging police reform bill, but it appears the Senate could launch into its debate on Monday. 

State Sen. Ryan Fattman, R-Sutton, used a procedural motion to postpone debate - asking that all of the nearly 130 amendments to the bill be printed in the Senate calendar. 

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, said there is bipartisan agreement on 80% to 90% of the bill, but a section dealing with qualified immunity of law enforcement officers is dividing the Senate. He said a bill that’s less expansive and focuses on areas of agreement is more likely to yield “timely action.” 

Qualified immunity is a doctrine that prohibits civil rights suits against government officials where unconstitutional conduct had not been clearly established as illegal at the time it occurred."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200711/mass-gop-senators-hold-up-police-bill-for-third-day

"Parents who have lost children to opioid overdoses gathered Friday outside the State House to urge the governor to lower flags to half-staff in honor of International Overdose Awareness Day, part of a national push to get all 50 states to bring flags down halfway on the day. 

The Massachusetts-based nonprofit Team Sharing organized the event and works with parents who have lost a child to substance use disorder by providing social networking, grief services, and advocacy. 

“If you ever have gone to a funeral and and watched a mom put her child in the ground, oh, my gosh, you’d do anything for them,” said Marlborough resident Cheryl Juaire, whose son Corey Merrill died in 2011 from an overdose. “He’s sending a clear message that he doesn’t care, and that’s what we’re really upset about. There was not a good enough reason why he couldn’t do it.” 

Baker has focused on reducing opioid overdoses during his time in office and the governor’s office plans to issue a proclamation on Aug. 31 declaring the day as International Overdose Awareness Day but said in a letter Thursday that U.S. Flag Code authorizes only certain, specific reasons for the lowering of the U.S. flag to half-staff."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200711/grieving-parents-press-baker-to-lower-flag-on-aug-31

@MA_Senate will a public listening session on #COVID19 reopening

Karen Spilka (@KarenSpilka) tweeted at 11:07 AM on Thu, Jun 11, 2020:

Tomorrow, the @MA_Senate will host its first public listening session on #COVID19 reopening. This session will focus on economic development, reinvestment & our workforce. TY @EricLesser , @senjehlen & @adamghinds for hosting! Info + agenda here: https://t.co/2HqX6usout #mapoli

"The Massachusetts State Senate will engage in a listening session hosted by Senate President Karen E. Spilka, Senator Eric P. Lesser, Senator Patricia D. Jehlen, and Senator Adam G. Hinds on Massachusetts’ economic recovery, reinvestment and workforce on Friday, June 12 beginning at 11AM.

“As we reopen the state’s economy, the Senate remains focused on the actions we need to take to support residents, businesses and communities,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This listening session, the first in a series, will serve as an important tool to address the many challenges we will face as a result of COVID-19. I want to thank my colleagues Senators Lesser, Jehlen, Hinds, and their committee members for their collaboration in gathering this session. I am equally thankful to those in the Administration, and our businesses and labor sectors for their participation in this important effort.”

“It is vital that we hear from the people in the community that are experiencing the economic impacts of the Coronavirus outbreak as well as other members of the administration who may provide valuable insight, said Senator Eric P. Lesser (D-Longmeadow). “We are facing an unprecedented time with nearly 1 million individuals out of work across the Commonwealth, and these conversations will help inform how we can work together on recovery efforts as a Legislature and as a state.”

The listening session will be a chance for the Senate to hear from the administration, labor, the business community, and other important stakeholders as we continue the discussion on the future of the Commonwealth's economy and workforce. This listening session will aim to help inform the Senate’s work on an economic development and jobs bill and what is needed to put people back to work and stimulate Massachusetts’ economy. 

"As we begin to re-open Massachusetts, my constituents, my colleagues, and I have many questions about what recovery will look like,” said Senator Patricia D. Jehlen (D-Somerville). “The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 shutdown were felt deeply across many industries from restaurants to healthcare and we need to be very intentional about supporting people more than ever."

“COVID has created incredible challenges for the Commonwealth, but it has also revealed many shortcomings in our society,” said Senator Adam G. Hinds (D-Pittsfield). “We must prepare for the new normal and these sessions are central to that process.”

Below is the full agenda:

11AM-12PM – Retail and restaurants

• Jon Hurst, Massachusetts Retailers Association
• Bob Luz, Massachusetts Restaurants Association

12PM-1PM – Administration and Reopening Advisory Board

• Secretary Kennealy, Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development
• Secretary Acosta, Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development

1-2PM – Labor

• Tim Foley, SEIU 1199
• Carlos Aramayo, Unite Here
• Yamila Ruiz, One Fair Wage

2PM-3PM – Business

• John Regan, Associated Industries of Massachusetts
• Segun Idowu, Black Economic Council of Massachusetts
• Jim Rooney, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

3-4PM – Unemployment Insurance

• Monica Halas, Greater Boston Legal Services

Friday’s listening session will be broadcast on the malegislature.gov website.



Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarenSpilka/status/1271096753941549057?s=03

Senate President Karen Spilka: "Our 'new normal' will be hard in a lot of ways, but it will also be necessary"

From Senate President Karen Spilka:

"The spread of the coronavirus, and with it the declaration of a state of emergency in Massachusetts, has created a situation unlike any we have ever seen. At the state leadership level, Gov. Charlie Baker, House Speaker Bob DeLeo and I have been united in our belief that our first priority is the health and safety of our residents and doing what is necessary to keep people safe.

Our long-term goal — and challenge — is to address the economic fallout of this unprecedented situation. This work has already begun in the Senate and will continue for quite some time. Since early March, the Senate has reacted to this crisis with urgency through a number of measures, including: waiving the one-week waiting period for unemployment benefits; halting evictions and foreclosures, with the strongest moratorium in the nation, to help renters, homeowners, small businesses and non-profits; waiving the MCAS requirement for this school year; and helping frontline health care workers through expanding scope of practice and providing medical liability protections.

When it comes to deciding when it is safe "open up the state," the Senate will rely on the advice of public health experts to ensure we are acting in the best interest of our residents. But we will also work with economic experts, business leaders, and our partners in local, state and the federal government to support our economy as we move toward what will likely be a "phased-in" reopening."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.metrowestdailynews.com/opinion/20200502/column-forging-future-that-works-for-us-all

For other COVID-19 Updates from Senate President Spilka: https://karenspilka.com/covid

Matt Kelly announces campaign for State Senate Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex district seat

Feb 5, 2020

Dear Friends Across the District,

For the last 12 years, it has been an honor and privilege to serve as an elected official for the Town of Franklin, including a period as Chairman of the Town Council. Public service at a municipal level gives one a deep appreciation for the complexity involved in government and a rare chance to get to know thousands of fellow citizens. Their concerns have become my concerns.

Today, I am formally announcing my next step in public service, where I look forward to representing all the people of the sprawling and diverse Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex senatorial district—which includes Attleboro, North Attleboro, Plainville, Wrentham, Norfolk, Franklin, Millis, Sherborn, Natick, Wellesley, Needham and Wayland—as its State Senator.

When I originally decided to run for Town Council, Franklin faced an unclear path for the future, plagued with issues such as uncontrolled growth, sewage and water challenges and a skyrocketing budget. During my time on the Council, I've had the chance to help make changes for the better by listening, applying commonsense and a willingness to work across political divisions.

Now the district and the state face a similarly daunting list of challenges that include crumbling transportation infrastructure, broken state-funding formulas and a lack of reliable services for the many among us struggling with opioid addiction and mental health issues.

In this election year, there is tremendous focus on national politics. Here in Massachusetts, under the leadership of our Governor, we are proving that bipartisanship is possible. But more needs to be done. A legislature that is dominated by only one party is not a legislature that reflects the population of the state as a whole. Nor is it one that can produce the balanced government we need to thrive. There are simply too many insider deals decided only along party lines rather than with open debate and accountability.

I know the majority of voters in this district are fed up with narrow agendas and a lack of concern for the bread-and-butter issues that each of our community's face. As Senator for the Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex district, I will make sure I represent everyone – from Attleboro to Wayland – and fight to make sure our voice is heard on Beacon Hill. My experience in Town Government has made me deeply aware of these issues and of the important role the state can play in solving them. So, I ask for the support of all the voters to give me the opportunity to truly make a difference on Beacon Hill for our district.

I hope for your support in the months to come and at the polls in November.

Matt Kelly

MattKellyForSenate.com/

Download your copy of the announcement document
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczZkJtWncwRXF5WWNnN0VLZ3V2ZUdNVnN0UnJj/view?usp=sharing

Matt Kelly announces campaign for State Senate Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex district seat

Massachusetts Senate Approves Next Generation Climate Policy

The Massachusetts State Senate on Thursday advanced three bills that boldly tackle the contributing factors of climate change, chart one of the most aggressive courses of action against global warming in the country, and pave the way for a clean energy future for all of its residents.

An Act Setting Next Generation Climate Policy and two companion bills — one dealing with electrifying fleets and another updating energy efficiency standards for appliances — passed overwhelmingly and with bi-partisan support.

"I am proud of the Senate for acting quickly on this legislation which takes a historic step in our fight to reduce harmful emissions that hurt our planet and our residents," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I commend Senator Barrett for his diligence in crafting a thorough legislative package that takes concrete steps to combat climate change by providing a plan to create a greener, healthier and more sustainable future. I would like to thank Senator Barrett and Senator Michael Rodrigues for their contributions to this next generation climate leadership."

"The Next Generation Climate package that the Senate passed today will allow the Commonwealth to reduce our carbon footprint and boldly confront the impacts of climate change," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (D-Westport). "These bills will help us achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and transform our energy delivery system to benefit our climate and future generations. I applaud Senate President Spilka and Senator Barrett for their leadership on this issue, and I thank my colleagues in the Senate for their collaboration in confronting perhaps the most important issue of our time."

"We've written the strongest climate statute in the nation," said Senator Mike Barrett (D-Lexington), Senate Chair of the Utilities and Energy Committee and the bill's chief author. "The bills started out strong. Then they got better as debate went on. More protection for low and moderate income families. Special sensitivity to the climate challenges facing small towns and rural areas. Retraining for people who may need to change jobs as we green the economy. In the fight against climate change, this lifts Massachusetts to the next level. My thanks to President Spilka and Chairman Rodrigues for conducting a model of the lawmaking process."

Key provisions of the climate policy package include:

Setting a statewide greenhouse gas limit for the year 2050 of "net zero" emissions. To achieve this, An Act Setting Next-Generation Climate Policy requires the state to hit near-term limits in 2025, 2030, and every five years thereafter; set sub-limits for transportation, buildings, solid waste, natural gas distribution, and other major sectors; and make implementation plans that are "clear, comprehensive, and specific."

Establishing the Massachusetts Climate Policy Commission. The commission would be a new, independent public watchdog to oversee government's handling of the unfolding crisis of climate change. Commissioners will be charged with offering a nonpartisan, science-based view of the problem as it plays out in Massachusetts with its attendant natural, economic, and demographic impacts and risks.

"We want this commission to be an independent guardian of the future, notably the future of younger generations, insulated from political pressure and consisting of the most authoritative and credible Massachusetts voices we can find," stated Senator Barrett. "Job one for the Commission is to tell us if we're on track in bringing down emissions. Job two is to advise us on what to do next. The commission will give us objective information about the performance of both government and the private sector and will pay special attention to the impact on low-income and other disadvantaged communities. If the commission works as intended, it will be a new voice, standing apart from politics as usual and committed to shedding light on a very hard problem."

• Reflecting the price of carbon. Under the bill, the Administration would be free to choose among various market based forms of pricing carbon—including a revenue-neutral fee or a regional "cap and trade" system similar to the Transportation Climate Initiative (TCI)—but he or she would have to do so by Jan. 1, 2022, for transportation; Jan. 1, 2025, for commercial, industrial and institutional buildings; and Jan. 1, 2030, for residential buildings. Any mechanism would be implemented so as to minimize the impact on low-income households, disadvantaged communities, and vulnerable manufacturing sectors.

• Providing legislative direction to the Department of Public Utilities (DPU), the state's primary energy oversight agency, for the first time. Compensating for a decades-long omission, the bill assigns the DPU a mission statement. It requires the agency to balance six priorities: reliability of supply, affordability, public safety, physical and cyber security, equity, and, significantly, reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

• Jumpstarting efforts to supply low-cost solar electricity to low-income communities. To reverse the failure of state programs to incentivize solar energy projects in low-income neighborhoods, as well as spur job creation, the bill requires the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) to set aside future solar allocations for such neighborhoods.

• Letting cities and towns adopt a "net zero" stretch energy code. The bill allows the state to support communities that choose on their own to move away from fossil fuels as the source of heating for new buildings. The state's contribution is to promulgate a "net zero" energy code, so that localities have the option available if they want to use it. The bill shifts responsibility for the code's development from the Board of Building Regulations and Standards to the DOER.

"When it comes to bringing down emissions, buildings are the toughest nut to crack," Barrett says. "We need to move on multiple fronts."

• Nudging natural gas utilities to adapt. The bill authorizes utilities to test technology and pipelines that generate and transport "renewable thermal energy," an emissions-free way to heat buildings that draws on the relative warmth of temperatures below ground.

• Strengthening executive branch oversight of MassSave. The bill directs the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) to set emissions reduction goals, in advance, for each three-year plan the utilities formulate for MassSave. It requires the DPU, at the conclusion of each three-year plan, to certify how much the plan actually contributed to meeting the Commonwealth's greenhouse gas emission limits.

• Tightening the alignment between MassSave and emissions limits. The bill requires electric utilities to include an explicit value for emissions reductions whenever they calculate the cost-effectiveness of a MassSave offering.

• Setting a deadline for converting MTBA buses to all-electric power. An Act to Accelerate the Transition of Cars, Trucks, and Buses to Carbon Free Power directs the MBTA to limit bus purchases and leases to zero-emissions vehicles beginning in 2030, and to aim for an all-zero-emissions fleet by 2040, to reduce transportation-related emissions in city neighborhoods.

• Offsetting the Trump Administration's efforts to slow progress on efficient appliances. An Act Relative to Energy Savings Efficiency updates Massachusetts appliance standards to improve energy and water efficiency standards for common household and commercial appliances, helping to conserve energy and save consumers and businesses money.

Other provisions include:

• Assembling the state's first-ever database of energy use in large buildings.
• Adding two building efficiency experts and an expert in advanced building technology to the membership of the Board of Building Regulations and Standards, which will retain responsibility for the base energy building code.
• Authorizing the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) to fund energy innovation pilots, and to take actions addressing health effects associated with the distribution and consumption of fossil fuels such as natural gas.
• Directing the DPU to consider the impact on emissions when it reviews electric and natural gas rates, prices, charges, and contracts.
• Directing state government to limit purchases and leases of vehicles to zero emissions vehicles only, beginning in 2024, if affordable replacements are available.
• Conducting a study of the opportunities to electrify vehicles owned or leased by municipalities, regional school districts, and regional transit authorities, taking into account costs and possible sources of financial help from state and federal government.
• Providing permanent statutory authorization for the "MOR-EV" program, the Commonwealth's system of financial incentives for purchasers of zero emission vehicles.

During debate on the Senate floor, the bill was strengthened through amendments that, among others, requires regional equity in carbon pricing and ensures equity is a component of The Department of Public Utilities mission statement.

The bills now go to the House of Representatives for consideration.


Links to the specific legislation referenced

• An Act setting next-generation climate policy https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2477
• An Act to Accelerate the Transition of Cars, Trucks and Buses to Carbon-Free Power https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2476
• An Act Relative to Energy Savings Efficiency https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2478

Massachusetts Senate Approves Next Generation Climate Policy

“Actually getting there is really going to take everything Massachusetts can muster”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The Massachusetts Senate plans to take up a far-reaching package of climate bills whose major components include an electric MBTA bus fleet by 2040, carbon-pricing mechanisms for transportation, homes and commercial buildings, and a series of five-year greenhouse gas emissions reduction requirements that ramp up to net-zero emissions in 2050.

The three bills, teed up for debate on Jan. 30, with amendments due by Monday, amount to what Senate President Karen Spilka called a “comprehensive plan for the state” to respond to an international issue – global climate change.

“This is a race against time,” Spilka told reporters. “Climate change is changing not only Massachusetts and the United States, it is changing the face of our planet, and our planet’s survival is at stake.”

The carbon pricing and net-zero emissions provisions are both contained in one piece of legislation, dubbed An Act Setting Next-Generation Climate Policy (S 2477). The other bills address energy efficiency (S 2478) and electric vehicles (S 2476)."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200126/carbon-pricing-is-cornerstone-of-senate-climate-package

Links to the specific legislation referenced

• An Act setting next-generation climate policy https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2477
• An Act to Accelerate the Transition of Cars, Trucks and Buses to Carbon-Free Power https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2476
• An Act Relative to Energy Savings Efficiency https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2478

The post earlier this week with the MA Senate press release can be found
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/massachusetts-state-senate-unveils-next.html

Massachusetts State Senate Unveils Next Generation Climate Policy

Amid increasing reports of environmental devastation worldwide, the Massachusetts State Senate has taken major new steps in advancing the state's approach to combating global warming. The Senate's next generation climate policy package, including An Act Setting Next Generation Climate Policy, An Act to Accelerate the Transition of Cars, Trucks and Buses to Carbon-Free Power, and An Act Relative to Energy Savings Efficiency, were released by the Senate Ways and Means Committee today, and are scheduled to be debated by the full Senate next week.

"The young people of Massachusetts have told us in no uncertain terms that they are looking to state leaders to take bold action on climate change," says Senate President Karen Spilka. "The Massachusetts State Senate has listened. I'm proud of Senator Barrett for his diligence in crafting a thorough legislative package that takes concrete steps to reduce emissions and provides a plan to create a greener, healthier and more sustainable future. I would like to thank Senator Barrett and Senator Michael Rodrigues for their contributions to this next generation of climate leadership."

"As a result of a collaborative stakeholder process, the package of bills polled out by the Committee today proposes a comprehensive plan to reduce our carbon footprint and boldly confront the impacts of climate change," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I applaud Senate President Spilka for her leadership and Senator Barrett for his thoughtful collaboration and partnership, which helped shape our efforts to put forward a series of bills to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and transform our energy delivery system to benefit our climate and future generations. I look forward to a robust and energetic debate next week on the Senate floor."

"Getting to net zero is absolutely necessary but it's also a big lift," said State Senator Mike Barrett, lead author and Senate Chair of the Utilities & Energy committee. "This bill is all about the how of it, as in 'Here's how we are going to get there.'"

Key provisions of the climate policy package include:

• Setting a statewide greenhouse gas limit for the year 2050 of "net zero" emissions. To achieve this, An Act Setting Next-Generation Climate Policy requires the state to hit near-term limits in 2025, 2030, and every five years thereafter; set sub-limits for transportation, buildings, solid waste, natural gas distribution, and other major sectors; and make implementation plans that are "clear, comprehensive, and specific."
• Establishing the Massachusetts Climate Policy Commission. The commission would be a new, independent public watchdog to oversee government's handling of the unfolding crisis of climate change. Commissioners will be charged with offering a nonpartisan, science-based view of the problem as it plays out in Massachusetts with its attendant natural, economic, and demographic impacts and risks.

"We want this commission to be an independent guardian of the future, notably the future of younger generations, insulated from political pressure and consisting of the most authoritative and credible Massachusetts voices we can find," stated Senator Barrett. "Job one for the Commission is to tell us if we're on track in bringing down emissions. Job two is to advise us on what to do next. The commission will give us objective information about the performance of both government and the private sector and will pay special attention to the impact on low-income and other disadvantaged communities. If the commission works as intended, it will be a new voice, standing apart from politics as usual and committed to shedding light on a very hard problem."

Reflecting the price of carbon. Under the bill, the Administration would be free to choose among various market based forms of pricing carbon—including a revenue-neutral fee or a regional "cap and trade" system similar to the Transportation Climate Initiative (TCI)—but he or she would have to do so by Jan. 1, 2022, for transportation; Jan. 1, 2025, for commercial, industrial and institutional buildings; and Jan. 1, 2030, for residential buildings. Any mechanism would be implemented so as to minimize the impact on low-income households, disadvantaged communities, and vulnerable manufacturing sectors.

Providing legislative direction to the Department of Public Utilities (DPU), the state's primary energy oversight agency, for the first time. Compensating for a decades-long omission, the bill assigns the DPU a mission statement. It requires the agency to balance five priorities: reliability of supply, affordability, public safety, physical and cyber security, and, significantly, reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

Jumpstarting efforts to supply low-cost solar electricity to low-income communities. To reverse the failure of state programs to incentivize solar energy projects in low-income neighborhoods, as well as spur job creation, the bill requires the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) to set aside future solar allocations for such neighborhoods.

Letting cities and towns adopt a "net zero" stretch energy code. The bill allows the state to support communities that choose on their own to move away from fossil fuels as the source of heating for new buildings. The state's contribution is to promulgate a "net zero" energy code, so that localities have the option available if they want to use it. The bill shifts responsibility for the code's development from the Board of Building Regulations and Standards to the DOER.

"When it comes to bringing down emissions, buildings are the toughest nut to crack," Barrett says. "We need to move on multiple fronts."

Nudging natural gas utilities to adapt. The bill authorizes utilities to test technology and pipelines that generate and transport "renewable thermal energy," an emissions-free way to heat buildings that draws on the relative warmth of temperatures below ground.

Strengthening executive branch oversight of MassSave. The bill directs the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) to set emissions reduction goals, in advance, for each three-year plan the utilities formulate for MassSave. It requires the DPU, at the conclusion of each three-year plan, to certify how much the plan actually contributed to meeting the Commonwealth's greenhouse gas emission limits.

Tightening the alignment between MassSave and emissions limits. The bill requires electric utilities to include an explicit value for emissions reductions whenever they calculate the cost-effectiveness of a MassSave offering.

Setting a deadline for converting MTBA buses to all-electric power. An Act to Accelerate the Transition of Cars, Trucks, and Buses to Carbon Free Power directs the MBTA to limit bus purchases and leases to zero-emissions vehicles beginning in 2030, and to aim for an all-zero-emissions fleet by 2040, to reduce transportation-related emissions in city neighborhoods.

Offsetting the Trump Administration's efforts to slow progress on efficient appliances. An Act Relative to Energy Savings Efficiency updates Massachusetts appliance standards to improve energy and water efficiency standards for common household and commercial appliances, helping to conserve energy and save consumers and businesses money.

Other provisions include:

• Assembling the state's first-ever database of energy use in large buildings.
• Adding two building efficiency experts and an expert in advanced building technology to the membership of the Board of Building Regulations and Standards, which will retain responsibility for the base energy building code.
• Authorizing the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) to fund energy innovation pilots, and to take actions addressing health effects associated with the distribution and consumption of fossil fuels such as natural gas.
• Directing the DPU to consider the impact on emissions when it reviews electric and natural gas rates, prices, charges, and contracts.
• Directing state government to limit purchases and leases of vehicles to zero emissions vehicles only, beginning in 2024, if affordable replacements are available.
• Conducting a study of the opportunities to electrify vehicles owned or leased by municipalities, regional school districts, and regional transit authorities, taking into account costs and possible sources of financial help from state and federal government.
• Providing permanent statutory authorization for the "MOR-EV" program, the Commonwealth's system of financial incentives for purchasers of zero emission vehicles.

"In Boston, we set a goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050," stated Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. "Buildings along with transportation make up nearly 99 percent of Boston's carbon emissions and I'm proud to join my colleagues at the Legislature in support of this proposal, which puts critical strategies in place to cut emissions across the Commonwealth. Together, we'll work towards a more sustainable Boston for our residents, and generations to come."

"We applaud the Senate's leadership and are pleased to see President Spilka making good on her promise to move forward critical climate legislation," stated Jacob Stern, Deputy Director of the Massachusetts Sierra Club. "Given that climate science tells us we only have until 2030 to substantially reduce our emissions, we hope that this legislation will serve as a catalyst for immediate action. We look forward to reviewing the bill in detail and working with our movement allies to pass these much-needed policies into law."

"NECEC commends Senate President Spilka and the Massachusetts Senate for proposing a net zero emissions standard, in alignment with scientific consensus," said Northeast Clean Energy Council (NECEC) President Peter Rothstein. "Swift passage of this legislation will accelerate the clean energy transition in the energy, buildings and transportation sectors, and will cement Massachusetts' position as a premier place to build a robust clean energy economy."

"We thank the Senate for releasing an energy bill that sets us on a course to more boldly address climate change—the most critical issue of our time," stated Elizabeth Henry, President of the Environmental League of Massachusetts. "By setting interim GHG reduction targets and echoing the Governor's call for net zero emissions by 2050, the Senate acknowledges how much work is left to do. In particular, we applaud the Senate for directing DOER to develop a net zero stretch code to address the built environment, and for including provisions that would accelerate electric vehicle use and ability of low income communities to access solar energy."

"With the bill released today, President Spilka and Senate leadership are setting the Commonwealth on a meaningful pathway to a net-zero carbon economy by 2050", said Deborah Donovan, Acadia Center's Massachusetts Director. "The strong interim target of a 50% reduction by 2030 ensures that Massachusetts will make the next decade count. The ambitious provisions of this bill will boost our economy and protect the health of our most vulnerable residents and our planet."

"Communities want and need a Net Zero stretch code in order to meet their local climate goals," said Rebecca Winterich-Knox of the Mass Climate Action Network. "Committing to the goal of Net Zero by 2050 is a big step in the right direction, and will let cities and towns take leadership on better buildings."

"The Senate Committee's climate bill will make a real difference for people's health and our climate," said Alyssa Rayman-Read, Vice President and Director of CLF Massachusetts. "Getting to zero emissions by 2050 is an absolute necessity, and pushing the T to exclusively use electric vehicles will go a long way towards hitting that goal."

"This legislation will continue to fuel our transition away from a carbon intensive economy, while promoting new job growth and economic opportunities for the Commonwealth," stated Michael Green, Executive Director of Climate Xchange. "A carbon free economy will benefit all of the Massachusetts businesses and residents. This legislation will unlock much needed market signals, providing the opportunity for sustainable business growth, innovation and continue to make Massachusetts one of the most vibrant economies in the nation."

The entire Senate is expected to vote on the legislation by the end of January.

Links to the specific legislation referenced

• An Act setting next-generation climate policy https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2477
• An Act to Accelerate the Transition of Cars, Trucks and Buses to Carbon-Free Power https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2476
• An Act Relative to Energy Savings Efficiency https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2478

MA Senate Passes Fiscal Year 2019 Closeout Supplemental Budget of $779.8 Million

Senate Passes Fiscal Year 2019 Closeout Supplemental Budget of $779.8 Million

The Senate proposal boosts Rainy Day Fund by $356M

The Massachusetts State Senate passed a $779.8 million closeout supplemental budget for Fiscal Year 2019 today, after adding $8.9 million during floor debate. It also includes a transfer of $356 million to the state's stabilization fund, thereby continuing to build the Commonwealth's Rainy Day Fund and placing the state on firmer financial footing.  At approximately $3.2 billion, the fund would reach its highest level to date. 

"I'd like to thank the Senate Chair of Ways and Means, Senator Rodrigues, for his leadership throughout the 2019 fiscal year budget process, and thank all of the Senate members for their thoughtful contributions to this final closeout supplemental budget," stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I am proud of the commitment to education funding, early voting, transportation improvements, community-based Family Resource Centers, workforce development and public health that this supplemental budget represents."

"With today's passage of this supplemental budget, the Senate is responsibly closing the books on Fiscal Year 2019," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.  "While bolstering our Rainy Day Fund, we make a number of meaningful investments to increase educational opportunity, improve our state's aging infrastructure, confront worsening congestion, reduce our carbon footprint, and address public health issues relative to Eastern equine encephalitis and toxic PFAS chemical contamination."

The Senate's supplemental budget furthers the chamber's commitment to ensuring all children have access to greater educational opportunities. Consistent with the Senate's long-standing support of increased investments in education, the supplemental budget dedicates $50M to fund educational programming costs associated with the Student Opportunity Act. In addition to increasing educational opportunities, the Senate's budget ensures student safety and mental well-being through separate $10M investments in both school behavioral health services and enhanced public school safety and security measures, respectively. Additional education investments include:

·         $30M for targeted assistance for school improvement

·         $20M for the Endowment Incentives Program for public higher education institutions to provide an incentive for campuses to leverage private contributions

·         $10M for campus safety and security infrastructure grants to institutions of higher education

·         $5.1M to assist school districts with regional school transportation costs

·         $2M for special education circuit breaker reimbursements

·         $1M in rural school aid

The Senate's closeout budget makes a number of targeted investments to help communities update aging transportation and water infrastructure, and improve public health.  The supplemental budget invests $60M in Chapter 90 funding to support improvements of local roads and bridges. It also provides $5M for a new pilot program to tackle increased traffic congestion, which is currently threatening quality of life and access to jobs. Additional investments to support our communities include:

·         $50M for the MBTA capital acceleration program

·         $35M for the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust to help finance improvements to local water systems

·         $28.4M for targeted per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination remediation of public water supplies and ongoing monitoring

·         $5M for culvert and dam repairs

·         $5M for costs associated with mosquito spraying to reduce the risk of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE)

·         Authorizes $5M in grants for de-leading projects at early education facilities, childcare centers and elementary schools

The Senate's budget addresses the pressing issue of climate change by investing $5M for a program to provide consumer rebates and other economic incentives to reduce carbon emissions. In addition, the proposal dedicates the use of $32M in Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) funds per fiscal year to promote the purchase and lease of electric vehicles, and to support the Green Communities program through December 31, 2021.

Finally, the supplemental budget reinforces the Senate's belief that voting is key to a healthy democracy by authorizing an early voting period for the 2020 presidential primary, to begin on Monday, February 24, 2020 and end on Friday, February 28, 2020. It also funds $1.25M for early voting implementation.

Other Notable Spending Items

The supplemental budget passed by the Senate today commits $3M to bolster a network of community-based Family Resource Centers that offer a wide range of family, child, and community based services. It also provides an additional $3M for grants to support the agriculture, commercial fishing and cranberry growing industries, vital components of the Commonwealth's economic fabric.

Finally, recognizing the need to prioritize public safety and raise awareness about incidences of hate, the Senate's closeout budget provides $1M for a statewide grant program to secure non-profit institutions at risk of terrorist attacks, and $400,000 for a new statewide grant program focused on the prevention of hate crimes in public schools.

The closeout supplemental budget for Fiscal Year 2019 passed by the Senate also includes:

·         $20.5M for the Chapter 257 rate reserve to support workforce development in the human services sector

·         $16.4M for program and facility improvements related to section 35 of chapter 123 civil commitments

·         $16.3M for the Safety Net Provider Trust Fund

·         $10.1M for homemaker and home health aide rate add-ons

·         $10M for the creation of extremely low-income housing units through the Affordable Housing Trust Fund

·         $9.9M for nursing home facility rates

·         $8.7M for National Guard tuition and fee waivers

·         $5.7M for the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), including $3.8M to provide representation in underserved parts of the Commonwealth

·         $5M for gun violence prevention grants

·         $4M for Regionalization Incentive Grants

·         $3.4M for the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund

·         $1.25M for Early Voting

·         $630K for Mass Rehabilitation Commission assistive technology

·         $195K for shark tagging and monitoring in the Cape Cod region

In addition, the supplemental budget authorizes the growing of hemp on Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) land. 

The Senate's Fiscal Year 2019 closeout supplemental budget will now be reconciled with the House's version, which was passed last week.